Four more suspects have been arrested in connection with the Bonfire Night disorder on the Meadow Well estate in North Shields, bringing the total number held to 21, Northumbria Police has said.
Violent scenes broke out on the estate on Thursday evening when fireworks were thrown at a building on Waterville Road and a car was driven into it before being set alight. Emergency crews who responded were attacked, and five police cars and three fire engines were damaged.
Arrests continue as investigation widens
On Monday, the force said 17 people aged between 12 and 66 had been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder. It has now confirmed that a further four suspects have been brought in for questioning, although it would not confirm their ages.
Officers said they expect to make more arrests in the coming days and weeks.
Police pledge further action
A Northumbria Police spokesman said: "We have now arrested 21 people following Bonfire Night disorder on the Meadow Well estate in North Shields. Rest assured, these latest arrests are far from the end of our work and we expect to carry out more in the coming days and weeks. If you have information which could assist our enquiries, get in touch using the details provided below."
Chief Supt Daniel Whyte, the Area Commander for North Tyneside, said: "We have made further arrests over the weekend as our full investigation into Thursday’s appalling incident continues. I would like to reassure the public that our investigative efforts will not stop, and further arrests are expected in the coming days. If you were involved in the disorder on Thursday night, expect to be sat in one our cells soon."
Community response and next steps
The disorder is understood to have been sparked by fears that the building, currently under construction, would be used as a house of multi-occupancy, despite it being planned as a branch of discount supermarket Heron Foods with flats above.
All those arrested were questioned on suspicion of violent disorder. So far, two have been told they will face no further police action, and the rest have been released on bail. An increased police presence in the area is expected to continue to offer reassurance to the community.
